Watson, an 18-year-old culinary arts student, has since talked with CNN, “Good Morning America,” “Inside Edition” and several other media outlets. He said the response has been “crazy” and unexpected.

“I was already over the fact that I lost weight and all that, and then one day I go to school and it just all blew up,” he said.

Watson said he’s maintained a weight of about 205 pounds for the past six months. He shed the pounds between his junior and senior years by walking to school — every day — about 3 miles a day.

He also walked at the McKinley National Memorial and ate healthy, counting calories. Watson said he tried and failed to lose weight before, but the mantra “every day’s a new day” made the difference this time.

“I had to do something with my life and change it,” he said. “I was pretty miserable being that obese.”

Watson said his brother, who lost 50 pounds, inspired him. Once he started, there was “no going back” to being tired and depressed.

“There was always those times where I would give in, but for the most part, I was so dedicated to just getting it done and being thin that it wasn’t too bad,” he said.

Watson also worked at KFC during much of this time. Now, Watson notices his jawline when he looks in the mirror and his confidence has “shot through the roof.”

Upon graduation, Watson said he plans to find a good, full-time job.

Terrance Jones, the district’s family support specialist and graduation coach, said Watson inspired him to create the McKinley Senior Limelight — a daily feature on Facebook to honor seniors — after consulting with students about the name.

Jones, who prides himself on knowing a majority of students, said he didn’t immediately recognize Watson after he lost the weight. His story stayed with Jones, partly because Watson is a “normal student” when it comes to academics and athletics.

Jones said he hopes Watson finds full-time work that allows him to maintain his healthy lifestyle and was pleased to see him receive national attention.

“It definitely makes my heart smile because I know that moments like this come very far and few between,” he said.

Never miss a story

Choose the plan that's right for you.
Digital access or digital and print delivery.